GCC women driving economies, businesses, and start-ups
T he winds of change have been sweeping across the GCC in recent decades, as leaders and policymakers recognize the untapped potential of their female populations In recent years, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries have witnessed a remarkable transformation in their approach to gender equality and women’s empowerment, with women increasingly assuming prominent roles, empowered by recent progressive reforms initiated by select regional countries. The GCC is known for its rich oil reserves and rapid economic development. While these nations have long been seen as economic powerhouses in the Middle East, the region is now also gaining recognition for the significant strides it has made in empowering women and their burgeoning role in economies, businesses, and start-ups. Historically, the GCC region has had a conservative social and cultural landscape, with gender roles reflecting traditional values. Women were often confined to domestic roles and had limited opportunities in the workforce.
However, the winds of change have been sweeping across the GCC in recent decades, as leaders and policymakers recognize the untapped potential of their female populations. A notable aspect of women’s empowerment in the GCC is their increasing presence in leadership roles within the corporate world. Companies in the region are recognizing the value of diverse leadership teams, and more women are ascending to executive positions and boards of directors. This shift is not only about diversity but also about harnessing the unique skills and perspectives that women bring to the table. The start-up ecosystem in the GCC has been flourishing, with women entrepreneurs making their mark in various industries. Many GCC countries have established entrepreneurship support programs that specifically target women, providing them with mentorship, training, and access to funding. These initiatives have led to a surge in women-owned start-ups, contributing to the region’s economic diversification. A critical factor driving women’s empowerment in the GCC has been the emphasis
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INVEST GCC: DAVOS 2024
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